Monday-Wednesday, September 14-16, at the Life Enrichment Center in Leesburg
Brochure    Directions    Registration

Our 2009 Conference on Ministry is scheduled for Monday-Wednesday, September 14-16, at the Life Enrichment Center in Leesburg.  This year the event begins later in the afternoon with opening Eucharist at 4:00 pm.  Our Transitions Event for those rostered leaders who entered new call situations in this synod since last September, and for interns serving in this synod, precedes the Conference beginning at 10:00 am on Monday morning, September 14.

We are using as our theme this year, God’s Work, Our Hands, which is now the ELCA tag line. This is most appropriate since Presiding Bishop Mark S. Hanson is scheduled to be our featured speaker for the event. Bp. Hanson will lead three keynote addresses on selected topics followed by opportunities for questions and answers:  1) the global, ecumenical, and churchwide contexts; 2) the evangelizing vision of this synod and the ELCA; and, 3) congregations of the ELCA being a part of a faithful and courageous church.  

As our Together in Mission Vision and Strategy continues to beckon us towards a more missional and evangelizing church, we will want to spend time in conversation about shaping our ministry together for the coming years. We will share exciting updates and examples of congregations engaging their communities, and I will welcome your input and ideas to help shape our vision. Additionally, the Rev. Chuck Salter will be present to introduce MissionInsite® – a dynamic demographic tool that can both focus and encourage effective congregational evangelism and ministry in the community context.

It is expected that rostered leaders of our synod attend the Conference on Ministry. Our presence with one another is a part of living out our collegiality and partnership in the Gospel ministry. The schedule and agenda is planned in such a way as to provide opportunities for worship, learning, sharing, fellowship and personal renewal. 

Registration at the synod website is now open. Please note that because the event is a week earlier than usual this year, registration must be completed by August 23, 2009 to meet our contractual requirements. Time is short and many of us are planning some time away over the summer months – so register now to ensure your place at the Conference on Ministry!

I look forward to our time together. If you wish to schedule half-hour private appointments with me, one of my assistants, or one of our synod specialists, please call Ileana Sardinas (813/876-7660, ext. 225) in advance of the conference to set such appointments.                                                            

In Christ and His Love,                                                             

Edward R. Benoway, Bishop

Florida-Bahamas Synod, ELCA

P.S. NEW THIS YEAR: We would like you to invite your congregation’s Council President, or one council member, to join us on the first day of scheduled events (Monday, Sept. 14, 4PM – 9PM) for opening worship and/or Bp. Hanson’s evening keynote address. This will allow them an opportunity to meet and interact with Bp. Hanson. Please contact Val Neuhart by email ( This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it ) or by phone (813.876.7660 ext 233) if they plan to attend. There is no registration charge however dinner cost is $11.00.